Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and flavorful protein base to the casserole.

Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy, cheesy texture.

Milk: Helps to bind the ingredients together and adds moisture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the dish.

Frozen hash browns: Creates a hearty base and adds texture to the casserole.

When preparing the hash browns for this gluten-free breakfast casserole, make sure they are fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture. Excess water can make the casserole soggy. To ensure they are dry, you can spread the hash browns on a clean kitchen towel and gently press another towel on top to absorb any remaining moisture. This step will help achieve a perfectly set and golden casserole.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with cooked and crumbled turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner option and still provides a similar flavor profile.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with cooked and crumbled vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage offers a plant-based alternative while maintaining the texture and flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitutes are often lower in cholesterol and can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: This mixture is a common vegan alternative that mimics the binding properties of eggs.

• cheddar or your choice shredded cheese - Substitute with dairy-free shredded cheese: Dairy-free cheese is suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.

• cheddar or your choice shredded cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a good source of vitamins for those avoiding dairy.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a popular dairy-free alternative that works well in casseroles.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk has a creamy texture and is a good substitute for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct replacement and may offer a slightly different mineral content.

• salt - Substitute with herb seasoning: Herb seasoning can add flavor without the need for additional salt, which is beneficial for those on a low-sodium diet.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but with a different color, which may be preferable in some dishes.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat and can be used if a spicier flavor is desired.

• frozen, thawed hash browns - Substitute with freshly grated potatoes: Freshly grated potatoes can be used for a fresher taste and texture.

• frozen, thawed hash browns - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes offer a different flavor and additional nutrients, making the dish more nutritious.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, cut the casserole into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and maintains the texture of the hash browns and cheese.
• Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating the casserole multiple times. Only reheat the amount you plan to eat immediately.
• If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, it's best to discard the casserole to ensure food safety.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover breakfast casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melty.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top get a bit crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Check to make sure the eggs and sausage are heated through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the casserole in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s in a single layer.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
  4. The hash browns should get a nice crispy texture.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the casserole on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to keep it moist.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the cooked sausage, beaten eggs, shredded cheese, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Helps in beating the eggs to a smooth consistency before mixing with other ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the milk and hash browns.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt and black pepper precisely.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the mixture to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

• Baking dish: The vessel in which the casserole mixture is poured and baked.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

• Knife: Handy for cutting and crumbling the cooked sausage if not already done.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting and crumbling the sausage.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cook and crumble the breakfast sausage the night before.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating.

Thaw hash browns overnight: Place frozen hash browns in the fridge to thaw overnight.

Mix in a large bowl: Use a large bowl to combine all ingredients quickly and efficiently.

Grease the baking dish: Grease the baking dish ahead of time to save a step during assembly.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you mix the ingredients.